Exploring the Amazon rainforest offers an incredible immersion into one of the world's most biodiverse regions. This post covers our first two days at Refugio Amazonas, an eco-lodge located just outside Peru’s Tambopata National Reserve. From navigating rivers to engaging in guided jungle hikes, here’s a journey through rainforest experiences that blend natural wonder with eco-friendly living.
Day 1: Arrival at Refugio Amazonas and a Jungle Introduction
Getting to the Lodge
Our journey began with an early-morning flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado, where we met our guide from Rainforest Expeditions. A short drive and boat ride later, we were already spotting wildlife, including capybaras, caimans, and a majestic king vulture. Our guide, Dennis, expertly helped us capture close-up shots of the animals, setting the tone for our immersive Amazon experience.
First Impressions at Refugio Amazonas
Refugio Amazonas is nestled deep in the rainforest, and our room featured an open wall facing the jungle. While this allowed a unique connection to nature, we quickly learned to keep lights off at night to avoid attracting insects. Equipped with mosquito nets and eco-friendly amenities, the room had everything needed for a comfortable, eco-conscious stay.
Exploring the Overlook Trail
Our first rainforest hike took us along the Overlook Trail, where Dennis introduced us to the Brazil nut trees and the intriguing walking palm, which grows new roots to move toward sunlight. This short hike offered a captivating glimpse into the rainforest’s complex ecosystem.
Day 2: Mammal Clay Licks, Monkey Sightings, and Canopy Tower Views
Morning at the Mammal Clay Lick
We began our second day at the mammal clay lick, a site where animals gather to consume the mineral-rich clay. Though we didn’t see any large animals, we spotted various monkey species and brightly colored macaws, making for a delightful morning.
Climbing the Canopy Tower
The highlight of our day was climbing the 37-meter canopy tower, where we saw the Amazon rainforest stretching endlessly below us. From this vantage point, we observed a harpy eagle and a roadside hawk, taking in the jungle sounds and sights. While the height was a bit intimidating, the views were well worth it.
Lake Sandoval and Nighttime Surprises
In the afternoon, we ventured to Lake Sandoval for a canoe ride, spotting hoatzin birds and other wildlife around the lake. Returning to our room, we encountered a four-eyed possum, a surprise guest that underscored the lodge’s open nature. Later that evening, we set off on an impromptu night walk, spotting tarantulas, scorpions, and the infamous bullet ants, adding to the thrill of our Amazon experience.
Day 3: Parrot Clay Lick, Sunset Boat Ride, and Nocturnal Discoveries
Parrot Clay Lick Expedition
Our third day started before dawn with a two-hour boat ride to a parrot clay lick. Watching the sunrise over the river was mesmerizing, and at the clay lick, we observed flocks of parrots feeding on the mineral-rich soil. Though it wasn’t macaw season, the variety of parrot species made this early morning trip a highlight.
Afternoon Wildlife Spotting and a Sunset Cruise
On the return journey, we were lucky to spot both caimans and capybaras along the riverbank. In the late afternoon, we set out on a sunset cruise, where the jungle sounds intensified as the sky shifted to shades of pink and purple. It was a serene and picturesque way to wrap up our final evening in the Amazon.
Night Hike for Moth Discovery
For our last night in the rainforest, we joined a guided moth-watching hike. We learned to identify tiger moths by their heart-shaped wing patterns and even helped capture samples for research. This nighttime exploration offered a hands-on insight into the delicate ecosystem and the importance of insects as pollinators and bioindicators in the Amazon.
Day 4: Farewell to the Amazon and Transition to Cusco
Departure from Refugio Amazonas
As we prepared to leave, a group of monkeys made a surprise appearance, a fitting farewell from the rainforest. After an hour-long boat ride and quick flight, we arrived in Cusco, feeling the immediate effects of the altitude. While exciting, the shift from the humid jungle to the cool, thin air of the Andes was physically intense.
Arrival in Cusco: Altitude Adjustment and Cultural Exploration
First Impressions of Cusco
At 11,000 feet above sea level, Cusco required some adjustment. After checking into Explora Hostel and resting briefly, we headed to the main square to exchange currency and prepare for the days ahead.
Sampling Local Flavors
For dinner, we sampled “Chicha Morada,” a traditional drink made from purple corn and lime, which tasted like a blend of pomegranate and cranberry juice. For the main course, we tried a Cusco specialty: guinea pig. While the dish had a unique taste akin to dark meat chicken, it was an acquired flavor, offering an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
Reflecting on an Incredible Journey
From the lush, humid Amazon to the high-altitude charm of Cusco, this journey captured the diverse beauty of Peru. Our time at Refugio Amazonas connected us deeply with nature, while Cusco introduced us to Peru’s cultural and historical roots. Each moment, from watching parrots gather at dawn to sampling traditional cuisine, has left us with lasting memories and an appreciation for Peru’s rich and varied landscapes.
Stay tuned as we continue to explore Cusco, acclimate to the altitude, and prepare for our upcoming trek on the legendary Inca Trail.
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